Ralph Randolph Dawson, age 81, of Bedford, passed away on Tuesday, July 26, 2016. He was born in Bedford on August 29, 1934 to the late Otha Dawson and Ellen Goode Dawson. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his first wife, Mary J. Dawson; second wife, Erma Dawson and son, David Wayne Dawson.

After retiring from his job in Washington, D.C.; He and his wife, Erma bought the house at 313 East Franklin St., where he lived until his health prevented.

"Sonny", as his loved ones called him; was a"jack of all trades." He loved to tinker with different things. His presence will be missed by all who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Mary Ellen Dawson of Houston, TX; grandsons, Nashon Walker (Tammy) of Kansas; Kenneth Briggs III (Dominque) Houston; S.SGT. Michael E. Massey (Justina) of Fort Brag, NC.; Clarence J. Harris of Bryan, TX.; David W. Dawson, Jr. (Carolina) of Bedford, VA; granddaughters, Lawresse Walker of Oklahoma City; Sirrah Harris of Baytown, TX; Tabitha Elliote (Darcell) and Kassie Martin (Shawn) both of Bedford; sister, Betty D. Faulkner of Washington, D.C.; nephew, Harry G. Dawson (Beatrice) also of Washington, D.C.; niece, Mary D. Miller of Bedford, VA; thirteen great-grandchildren; a host of other relatives and friends.

A Graveside service will be held at 1:00pm Monday, August 1, 2016 at Fairmont Cemetery. Friends may view on Sunday from 1:00pm-5:00pm at the funeral home.